The new eight-speed transmission adds much to both refinement and fuel efficiency, by reducing average engine speeds by about 34 percent. VW said this translates to 16 percent better fuel efficiency for the 3.6-litre V6 (now 14.8 City/10.4 Highway) and 9 percent better efficiency for the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel (now 11.1/7.0). This allowed engineers to replace last year’s 100-litre fuel tank, with an 85-litre tank, with no reduction in range.
New powertrain mounting points, and lots more sound insulation are also part of the refinement story.
The body is obviously more slender and longer than the previous model. The new “VW face” with new fog lights, silver roof rails, and new and larger 18-inch alloy wheels, all stand out, as do the optional Bi-Xenon headlights framed with some LED bling. But otherwise, it retains its somewhat under-the-radar persona.
VW said it radiates a “matter-of-fact, calm yet competent appeal”. Okay.
All New Interior
The all-new interior is highlighted by a new (and standard) navigation system, with a 60 GB hard drive. Compared to the previous model’s optional system, this new one has a bigger screen, is mounted higher in the dash, has touch screen controls, and has considerably more functions — like 3D mapping, mobile phone connectivity, satellite radio, Media Device Interface (MDI), and (optional) rear-view camera.
Other standard features include: Tire Monitoring System, auto-dimming rear view, electronic parking brake, digital compass, 8-way power driver's seat, Bluetooth, dual zone climate control, cruise, front and side air bags, front and rear side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control, heated front seats, four 12V outlets and one 115V outlet, leather wrapped wheel and shift knob, and trip computer.
Also new is an available two-pane panoramic sunroof ($1,800).
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| The new “VW face” with new fog lights, silver roof rails, and new and larger 18-inch alloy wheels, all stand out. (Photo: Mike Goetz/Auto123.com) |
New powertrain mounting points, and lots more sound insulation are also part of the refinement story.
The body is obviously more slender and longer than the previous model. The new “VW face” with new fog lights, silver roof rails, and new and larger 18-inch alloy wheels, all stand out, as do the optional Bi-Xenon headlights framed with some LED bling. But otherwise, it retains its somewhat under-the-radar persona.
VW said it radiates a “matter-of-fact, calm yet competent appeal”. Okay.
All New Interior
The all-new interior is highlighted by a new (and standard) navigation system, with a 60 GB hard drive. Compared to the previous model’s optional system, this new one has a bigger screen, is mounted higher in the dash, has touch screen controls, and has considerably more functions — like 3D mapping, mobile phone connectivity, satellite radio, Media Device Interface (MDI), and (optional) rear-view camera.
Other standard features include: Tire Monitoring System, auto-dimming rear view, electronic parking brake, digital compass, 8-way power driver's seat, Bluetooth, dual zone climate control, cruise, front and side air bags, front and rear side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control, heated front seats, four 12V outlets and one 115V outlet, leather wrapped wheel and shift knob, and trip computer.
Also new is an available two-pane panoramic sunroof ($1,800).
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| The all-new interior is highlighted by a new (and standard) navigation system, with a 60 GB hard drive. (Photo: Volkswagen) |